Explorer is named a “Best Pick” by the IIHS for frontal offset crash performance.

Explorer leads its class in U.S. government front crash performance with a 4-star driver and 5-star passenger rating.

The 2002 Explorer is a good road companion to other vehicles on the road. Its front bumper has been lowered more than 2 inches to enhance compatibility. To accomplish this and still provide necessary ground clearance, Explorer’s frame essentially was inverted with diagonal top beams tracing downward to meet lower beams.

Four-wheel-drive Explorer models are equipped with a patented new ControlSlip rear driveshaft. In the event of a frontal impact, the driveshaft is designed to telescope, not buckle. This movement helps the vehicle further absorb impact forces and manage energy.

Today’s Explorer features depowered dual air bags and the company’s patented BeltMinder™ safety belt system to help remind drivers to buckle up. With BeltMinder, a chime sounds and a red light flashes on the instrument panel.

Child safety seat attachments assist with proper child seat attachment in the second and third rows.

A series of additional safety features arrive on Explorer during the 2002 calendar year.

The Explorer will feature Ford’s unique Safety Canopy™. This is the industry’s first air bag designed to enhance occupant protection in the event of a rollover. A sensor detects if a rollover is imminent, and deploys the Safety Canopy curtain air bag from the A to the C pillar. Unlike traditional air bags, the Safety Canopy remains inflated for six seconds to reduce the risk of occupant ejection.

Ford’s comprehensive Personal Safety System™ becomes available in 2002. The system uses a series of sensors to help Explorer “think through” an accident to deploy appropriate restraints or air bags. The Personal Safety System features dual stage air bags with one or two levels of deployment possible.

Explorer will offer Advance Trac™, a computer-driven interactive vehicle dynamics system, later in 2002. It is the first Ford SUV available with such technology. The system is designed to enhance stability in extreme driving conditions.